Outdoor chaise lounge with integrated lock-box and communications system

ABSTRACT

An outdoor chaise lounge including a lock-box integrated therein. The chaise lounge may have a photovoltaic device mounted to a portion of a seat member where a user rests his or her head, and the lock-box may be positioned below a foot portion of the seat member. The foot portion of the seat member may be configured to be rotated upwards to enable a user to access the lock-box. In an embodiment, electronic devices may be integrated into a member of the chaise lounge, such as a leg member, frame member, or armrest, and be configured to enable a user to order food, beverages, attendants, or perform other communications with a billing or other system of a venue (e.g., hotel, cruise ship, etc.) via a wireless communication.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to chaise lounges, and more specifically,to chaise lounges having a lock-box and communication system.

BACKGROUND

Attending pools and beaches is a favorite pastime for people around theglobe. Pools, such as hotel pools, and beaches have become destinationlocations that often include snack bars or have food for purchase,items, such as inner-tubes, for rent or sale, or other items availablefor rent or purchase. To purchase or rent the food or items, peoplegenerally bring wallets and/or purses, to carry forms of payment, suchas money, credit cards, or otherwise.

Mobile electronic devices, such as mobile phones, electronic games, anddigital reading devices, have become prevalent throughout society.People take mobile electronic devices nearly everywhere, including poolsand beaches, because mobile electronic devices provide safety,entertainment, communications, leisure reading, and other informationand utility. While having valuables, such as forms of payment and mobileelectronic devices, are beneficial to people at pools and beaches, italso provides an opportunity for theft by others when people leave thevaluables unattended. Because of the fear of theft, people tend to leaveone person with the valuables while others go swimming or elsewhere orlimit their separation from the valuables (e.g., stay within eyesight ofthe valuables, concealing valuables with a towel or clothes, etc.) whenenjoying themselves in the water, when playing on the beach, etc. As aresult, the desired leisure experience tends to be limited as a resultof the stress of having valuables stolen while at pools and beaches. Inaddition to potential theft, there is also a concern of damage to mobiledevices (i) if sand or water enters the devices through a data powersocket or otherwise or (ii) if the user simply drops the device on apool deck.

SUMMARY

In order to minimize the chance of damage, loss, or theft of valuables,such as forms of payment, mobile electronic devices, or otherwise, theprinciples of the present invention provide for an outdoor chaise loungethat includes an integrated lock-box such that a user may lock his orher valuables in the lock-box to be secured therein. The lock-box mayhave a mechanical or electromechanical lock to enable a user to lock andunlock his or her valuables in the lock-box. If an electromechanicallock is used, the outdoor chaise lounge may include a photovoltaicdevice to convert light into electricity to charge a rechargeablebattery used to power the electromechanical lock.

An outdoor chaise lounge including a lock-box integrated therein. Thechaise lounge may have a photovoltaic device mounted to a portion of aseat member where a user rests his or her head, and the lock-box may bepositioned below a foot portion of the seat member. The foot portion ofthe seat member may be configured to be rotated upwards to enable a userto access the lock-box. In an embodiment, electronic devices may beintegrated into a member of the chaise lounge, such as a leg member,frame member, or armrest, and be configured to enable a user to orderfood, beverages, attendants, or perform other communications with abilling or other system of a venue (e.g., hotel, cruise ship, etc.) viaa wireless communication.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate an implementation of the presentinvention and, together with the description, serve to explain theadvantages and principles of the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1A is an illustration of an illustrative outdoor chaise lounge thathas an integrated lock-box positioned beneath a backrest of the outdoorchaise lounge in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention;

FIG. 1B is an illustration of an illustrative RFID bracelet that may beutilized with the lock-box of FIG. 1 for unlocking an electronic lock ofthe lock-box;

FIGS. 2A and 2B are illustrations of an alternative illustrative outdoorchaise lounge that has an integrated lock-box that is positioned beneatha foot portion of the seat member of the outdoor chaise lounge;

FIGS. 3A-3C are illustrations of yet another alternative illustrativeoutdoor chaise lounge that has an integrated lock-box that extendssideways from the outdoor chaise lounge;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of an illustrative outdoor chaise lounge thathas integrated lock-boxes in an armrest and a leg at a foot region ofthe outdoor chaise lounge in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of an illustrative network environment inwhich a mobile device may be configured to communicate with a safe orlock-box positioned at an outdoor chaise lounge to lock and/or unlockthe lock-box;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of illustrative circuitry for use incontrolling and operating a lock-box positioned at an outdoor chaiselounge;

FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an illustrative process for renting andoperating a lock-box at an outdoor chaise lounge;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an illustrative network environment inwhich a user may rent a lock-box at an outdoor chaise lounge;

FIG. 9 is an illustration of an illustrative outdoor chaise lounge thathas been retrofitted with a lock-box;

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a cutout view of an illustrative lock-boxthat is weather proof for use with outdoor chaise lounges;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a rear view of an illustrative lock-boxhaving a wire basket for use with outdoor chaise lounges;

FIG. 12 is an illustration of an illustrative lock-box configured with ahinged lid door;

FIG. 13 is an illustration of an illustrative lock-box configured withsliding lid door;

FIG. 14 is an illustration of an illustrative lock-box configured with asliding drawer;

FIG. 15 is an illustration of illustrative outdoor chaise lounges,configured with one or more lock-boxes, in a stacked configuration;

FIGS. 16A-16C are illustrations of an illustrative sliding lock-box inthree different positions that may be integrated with an outdoor chaiselounge;

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of an illustrative process for enabling a userto rent a lock-box configured with an outdoor chaise lounge;

FIG. 18 is an illustration of an illustrative outdoor chaise loungeinclusive of a lock-box;

FIGS. 19A-19C are illustrations of an illustrative outdoor chaise loungethat is configured to stack on other outdoor chaise lounges;

FIG. 20 is an illustration of an illustrative outdoor chaise loungeinclusive of a lock-box;

FIG. 21 is an illustration of an illustrative outdoor chaise loungeinclusive of an electronic device configured to be in communication witha communications network of a venue;

FIG. 22 is an illustration of an illustrative electronic deviceconfigured to communicate with a communications network of a venue;

FIGS. 23A and 23B are illustrations of an illustrative outdoor chaiselounge inclusive of a photovoltaic device and a cushion disposed on thephotovoltaic device; and

FIGS. 24A and 24B are illustrations of an illustrative lock-boxinclusive of a slideable drawer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With regard to FIG. 1A, an illustration of an illustrative outdoorchaise lounge 100 that has an integrated lock-box 102 supported by aframe 103 and legs 104 of the outdoor chaise lounge 100 is shown. Theoutdoor chaise lounge 100 may include a seat member 106 a and 106 b,where seat member 106 b may rotate upward to operate as a backrest 106b. In this embodiment, the integrated lock-box 102 is positioned beneaththe backrest 106 b. The lock-box 102 may include a door 108 with a userinterface 110 that enables a user to access the lock-box 102. The userinterface 110 may have a wide range of configurations, including keypad,RFID scanner, wireless receiver, barcode reader, credit/debit cardreader (e.g., magnetic strip reader), room key reader, electronicdisplay, keyhole, or any other electromechanical or electronic interfacethat enables a user or device responsive to a user to communicate withthe user interface 110 to lock and unlock the lock-box 102 so as toenable the user to add and remove personal items from the lock-box 102.In an alternative embodiment, the lock-box 102 may utilize a mechanicalkey and lock mechanism, as understood in the art. The door 108 of thelock-box 102 may also include a handle 111 that is integral orintegrated with the door 108 to allow for the user to open and close thedoor 108 of the lock-box 102.

With regard to FIG. 1B, an illustration of an illustrative RFID bracelet118 that may be utilized with the lock-box 102 of FIG. 1 for unlockingan electronic lock (not shown) of the lock-box 102 is shown. The RFIDbracelet 118 may include a band 120 that is flexible and size adjustableto accommodate for adults and children. The RFID bracelet 118 may havean integrated RFID tag 122 that may be fixedly programmed with a certaincode so as to be limited to a single lock-box or be reprogrammable toenable an operator or user (e.g., renter) to change the code. In oneembodiment, the RFID tag 122 may be disposable. Alternatively, the RFIDtag 122 may be configured to be moved from one band to another, as theRFID tag 122 may be expensive, whereas the bands may be inexpensive orhave different sizes. It should be understood that any form of RFID tagmay be utilized in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention. However, because the outdoor chaise lounges are generallyused around pools or beach, the use of a bracelet may provide moreconvenience and safety for users than other forms or carriers in whichthe RFID tags may be incorporated.

With regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, illustrations of an alternativeillustrative outdoor chaise lounge 200 that has an integrated lock-box202 that is positioned beneath a foot region 204 of a seat member 206 ofthe outdoor chaise lounge 200 are shown. In this embodiment, thelock-box 202 may be positioned beneath a door 208, such as a hingeddoor, that is integrated with the seat member 206 that enables the userto access the lock-box 202 through the seat member 206. In oneembodiment, the door 208 may be configured with a user interface (notshown), as described with regard to FIG. 1A. Alternatively, the door 208may be more of a protector cover for the lock-box 202 and be of the sameor different material, such as wood or plastic, than that of the seatmember 206. If the door 208 functions as a cover, than another door (notshown) for the lock-box 202 may be position beneath the door 208 andinclude the user interface. It should be understood that the userinterface need not be a physical “touch” user interface, such as akeypad, with which a user physically touches, but may be a wireless userinterface that communicates locally with an RFID tag, near fieldcommunication (NFC) interface that communicates locally with a mobiledevice or other item, or otherwise (e.g., remote control receiver thatreceives lock and unlock commands with a remote control device withwhich the user may use).

By having the lock-box 202 positioned at the foot region 204 of the seatmember 206, in the event that the outdoor chaise lounge 200 ispositioned in a tight spacing configuration with other outdoor chaiselounges, as is common at large, crowded pools and beaches, the user canaccess the lock-box 202 without having to walk around the outdoor chaiselounge 200 to raise a backrest member 212 of the seat member 206, as isthe case with outdoor chaise lounge 100 of FIG. 1A. The lock-box 202 isshown to include a housing 214 that extends below the seat member 206and be shorter than legs 210 of the outdoor chaise lounge 200, therebyenabling the outdoor chaise lounge 200 to be stacked with other outdoorchaise lounges (see FIG. 15).

With regard to FIGS. 3A-3C, illustrations of yet another alternativeillustrative outdoor chaise lounge 300 that has an integrated lock-box302 that extends sideways from the outdoor chaise lounge 300 are shown.FIG. 3A shows the lock-box 302 in a stowed position, and FIG. 3B showsthe lock-box 302 in an extended position. In the extended position, thelock-box 302 may provide a user with access to the lock-box 302, aspreviously described, and also provide a user with a “table” or shelf(i.e., top surface or lid 304 of the lock-box 302) on which drinks orother items may be placed. In one embodiment, sufficient hardware (e.g.,slides) (not shown) may be provided to enable the lock-box 302 to beextended to either or both sides of the outdoor chaise lounge 302. Inone embodiment, multiple lock-boxes may be supported by the outdoorchaise lounge, thereby enabling the user to store items in each withouthaving to extend a larger lock-box to one side (i.e., smaller lock-boxesmay be slid out on each side and/or from the foot and/or head) of theoutdoor chaise lounge. In the case of a larger lock-box, rather than thedoor covering the entire compartment, the door may be hinged half wayover the chamber, so that a portion, such as half, of the lock-box 302may remain beneath the seat member to limit the extent that the lock-box302 has to be extended from the outdoor chaise lounge. Having a hingedhalf-door may also allow a user to open the door without having to moveitems from the non-rotating portion of the door.

With regard to FIG. 3C, a detailed view of the lock-box 302 of FIGS. 3Aand 3B is shown. The lock-box 302 is shown to include a variety ofdifferent user interface items, including a keypad 306, antenna(s) 308for receiving wireless communications, credit card reader 310, touchscreen display 312, and/or other user interface component(s), such asstatus indicator(s) 314. In one embodiment, a coin and/or bill reader(not shown) may be included at the outdoor chaise lounge 300 to rent thelock-box 302. The lid or door 304 may be pivotally configured with thelock-box 302, and be inclusive of a seal 315 either on the door or alongan interface with which the door 304 contacts when closed to preventwater from entering a compartment of the lock-box 302. Moreover, thecompartment may be sub-divided with divider(s) 316 and be padded with asoft material (e.g., felt) to limit damaging items that are storedtherein. Outlets, charging ports, input/output (I/O) ports or otherports 318 that a user may desire to use to charge or access content viaa network, such as the Internet, may be provided within the lock-box302.

A variety of different configurations to provide the user with access tothe various ports, such as through a front or side internal or externalwall of the lock-box 302 may be provided in accordance with theprinciples of the present invention. Such access to the ports 318 may berestricted to a user who rents the lock-box 302 or any user of theoutdoor chaise lounge 300. A master key slot 320 may provide for anoperator to override any electronic control of the lock-box 302. Amaster passcode or PIN may also be available to an operator to accessthe lock-box 302. The lock-box 302 may also have an identifier, serialnumber, other printed indicia 322 to allow a user and operator to knowwhich lock-box is positioned on an outdoor chaise lounge 300. In oneembodiment, a solar panel 324 positioned on a front face 326 of thelock-box 302. Mounting hardware 328 that enables the lock-box 302 toslide in and out from beneath a seat portion (chair deck and rails) 330may be utilized.

With regard to FIG. 4, an illustration of an illustrative outdoor chaiselounge 400 that has integrated lock-boxes 402 and 404 respectivelypositioned in an armrest 406 and leg 408 at a foot region of the outdoorchaise lounge 400 in accordance with the principles of the presentinvention is shown. A lock-box 410 may also be positioned beneath aheadrest 412 of the outdoor chaise lounge 400. It should be understoodthat multiple lock-boxes are optional and that more than two lock-boxesmay be integrated with the outdoor chaise lounge 400. As further shown,a solar panel 414 may be positioned along a top portion of the back rest412 of the outdoor chaise lounge 400 and integrated therein. The solarpanel 414 may alternatively be retrofitted onto an existing outdoorchaise lounge. Because the lock-box(es) 402, 404, and 410 may useelectricity for powering electronics configured to provide forfunctionality (e.g., lock and unlock), the solar panel 414 may be usedto power and/or recharge one or more rechargeable batteries (not shown)mounted to or integrated with the outdoor chaise lounge 400 orlock-box(es) 402, 404, and/or 410. And, because the outdoor chaiselounge 400 has the availability of electricity, additional features maybe provided with the outdoor chaise lounge 400, including:

(i) a pager interface (not shown) for notifying an attendant to visitthe user at the outdoor chaise lounge;

(ii) an alarm (not shown) to alert a lifeguard or attendant of anincident, such as a drowning victim;

(iii) a fan (not shown) for cooling down a person;

(iv) a mister (not shown) for use in providing water mist to the user;

(v) a charger (not shown) for charging a mobile device, such as a mobiletelephone, which may be inside the lock-box;

(vi) a media device (not shown), such as a radio, television, CD player,electronic display, speakers with Bluetooth® interface (all not shown);

(vii) a display (not shown) that provides for status of lock-box 402,enables a user to create a personal identification number (PIN) orpasscode, input a passcode, open lock of the lock-box, or otherwise(e.g., usage status of the outdoor chaise lounge 400);

(viii) a light (not shown) positioned on the outdoor chaise lounge 400or extending vertically from the outdoor chaise lounge 400 on anextension arm (not shown) to notify an attendant that attention isdesired; or

(ix) any other device that may use electricity that is capable of beingpowered by a rechargeable battery by the solar panel 414.

It should be understood that the solar panel 414 may be configured in avariety of ways with the outdoor chaise lounge 400 or that an externalsolar panel that is not integrated with the outdoor chaise lounge 400(e.g., integrated with a nearby table or umbrella) may be plugged intoan outlet (not shown) on the outdoor chaise lounge 400 for recharging arechargeable battery (not shown) that is integrated with the lock-box402 or outdoor chaise lounge 400.

With regard to FIG. 5, an illustration of an illustrative networkenvironment 500 in which a mobile device 502 may be configured towirelessly communicate via a communications network 504 a and/or 504 b(e.g., mobile communications network, WiFi, NFC, Bluetooth, Infrared,local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), or otherwise) with asafe or lock-box 506 positioned at an outdoor chaise lounge, such asoutdoor chaise lounge 300 of FIG. 3, to lock and/or unlock the lock-box506 is shown. It should be understood that a variety of differentmechanisms, techniques, and communications protocols, for communicatingwith a user interface and/or looking mechanism of a lock-box arecontemplated.

With regard to FIG. 6, a block diagram of illustrative circuitry 600 foruse in controlling and operating a lock-box positioned at an outdoorchaise lounge is provided. The circuitry 600 may be formed of multiplemodules, including master control unit 602, I/O circuitry 604,electronic display 606, antenna(s) 608 for communicating over one ormore different frequency bands and using one or more differentcommunications protocols, locking mechanism 610, battery and/orrechargeable battery 612, power management module 614, solar panel(s)616, keypad 618, alarm (e.g., speaker) 620, and so on. The mastercontrol unit 602 may execute software to manage operations of thecircuitry for communicating with and operating the locking mechanism 610to control access to a compartment 622 of the lock-box. Power anddatabus outlets (not shown) may also be provided by the circuitry 600.An override mechanism 624 that may be electrical (e.g., circuitry and/orsoftware) or mechanical (e.g., physical key/lock) that may be used as amaster override may be utilized to open the lock mechanism 610.

With regard to FIG. 7, a flow diagram of an illustrative process 700 forusing an app on a mobile device for renting and operating a lock-box atan outdoor chaise lounge is shown. The process 700 may start at step 702for loading an app on a mobile device or accessing a website.Payment/authorization may be received from the app or website to enablea lock-box to be rented at step 704. In one embodiment, an identifier ofthe particular lock-box may be given. The identifier may be associatedwith a particular network address that is unique to a lock-box, therebyenabling remotely controlling the lock-box via a communications network.A token, password, key, or other identifier may be generated by acomputing device or received from the user, or simply communicated tothe lock-box at step 706. At step 708, to unlock the lock-box, the usermay enter a passcode or PIN (supplied by the user via the app orwebsite) into a user interface. Alternatively, the lock-box may becontrolled remotely via a remote server or other communications deviceor system, such as a kiosk or operator station. At step 710, a timeduration (e.g., 4 hours) for rental or use of the lock-box may bemonitored and, if time runs out, then the process may restart at step702. Otherwise, the user may continue to access (i.e., lock and unlock)the lock-box. The user may also actively terminate using the lock-box,and the process 700 is restarted in response thereto. An informationmanagement system managed and/or operated by an operator or owner of theoutdoor chaise lounges may be utilized to store information being usedto control and operate the lock-boxes associated with the outdoor chaiselounges.

With regard to FIG. 8, a block diagram of an illustrative networkenvironment in which a user may rent a lock-box at an outdoor chaiselounge from among multiple outdoor chaise lounges 802 a-802 c(collectively 802) is shown. In the network environment 800 shown, alocal area network 804 may be utilized. The local area network 804 maybe a WiFi network or any other LAN configuration or protocol, asunderstood in the art, where each of the outdoor chaise lounges withlock-boxes may have a different network address, as understood in theart. An access point 806, server 808, and other network devices may beprovided to support communications to and from the lock-boxes. If theoutdoor chaise lounges 802 are at a hotel, resort, cruise ship, orotherwise, then the user may access the lock-boxes via a hospitalitymanagement system via a hotel television system, telephone system,intranet, or any other system offered by the hotel, resort, cruise ship,or otherwise. The access point 808 may be a kiosk, vending machine, webportal, smartphone app, and/or hospitality management system.

With regard to FIG. 9, an illustration of an illustrative outdoor chaiselounge 900 that has been retrofitted with a lock-box 902 is shown. Inthis embodiment, a lock-box may be retrofitted into an existing outdoorchaise lounge by adding brackets 904 that support the lock-box. Inaddition to the brackets 904, other hardware, such as sliders 906,hinges (not shown), and/or other members (e.g., fastening members) maybe used to support the lock-box 902. By retrofitting the lock-box 902onto an existing outdoor chaise lounge 900, an owner of outdoor chaiselounges may simply purchase, rent, or otherwise acquire the lock-boxesand supporting communications equipment without having to purchase newoutdoor chaise lounges or have an operator of the lock-boxes have toprovide new outdoor chaise lounges in the case where the operator of thelock-boxes offers new outdoor chaise lounges with integrated lock-boxeswith a revenue sharing arrangement, for example. In retrofitting theoutdoor chaise lounge 900, fastening members that are atypical,non-standard, or configured in a manner (e.g., overlapping retrofittingelements) to be difficult to remove may be utilized to reduce thepotential for the lock-boxes to be removed by someone other thanauthorized personnel. To further secure a lock-box, such as lock-box 114(FIG. 1) or lock-box 902, to an outdoor chaise lounge, such as outdoorchaise lounges 100 (FIG. 1) and 900, the lock-box may be fixedlyattached to a frame member of a frame, such as frame 103 (FIG. 1). Inone embodiment, the frame may be formed of multiple frame elements. Oneor more brackets (e.g., brackets 904) may be configured to be connectedbetween the multiple frame elements, thereby fixedly securing thelock-box 902 to the frame and preventing the lock-box from being removedfrom the frame without separating the multiple frame members.Additionally and/or alternatively, a bracket may be configured to mountthe lock-box to the frame, and fastening members may be configured tofixedly secure the lock-box to the frame. A cover member may beconfigured to prevent direct access to the fastening members, where thecover member includes at least one cover fastening member beingdifferent from the fastening members.

With regard to FIG. 10, an illustration of a cutout view of anillustrative lock-box 1000 that is weather proof for use with an outdoorchaise lounge 1001 is shown. A locking mechanism 1002 may be included,where an elastomeric seal 1004 surrounding a region at which a lid ordoor of the lock-box 1000 may be included to protect a compartment 1006of the lock-box 1000 in which items may be stored.

With regard to FIG. 11, an illustration of a rear view of anillustrative lock-box 1100 having a wire basket 1102 for use with anoutdoor chaise lounge 1104 is shown. The use of the wire basket 1102 isnot weather proof, but simply provides for a secured holder of personalitems. In one embodiment, a cover may be formed of a solid material,such as plastic or wood, that prevents rain and sun from directlyentering the wire basket. Because the cover will be subjected tosunlight and weather conditions, the cover may be formed of a materialthat is capable of surviving long periods of time in sunlight and canwithstand wide temperature and moisture conditions for longer usewithout having to be replaced.

With regard to FIG. 12, an illustration of an illustrative lock-box 1200configured with a hinged lid door 1202 is shown. Such a configurationmay be used with certain configurations and positions of lock-boxes,such as those described hereinabove. In one embodiment, the door 1202may be biased to a closed position using a spring (not shown) or otherdesign mechanism, so that the door will close automatically unless beingphysically held open by a user, thereby reducing the chance that rain orother water will enter the compartment. Other covers or enclosuremechanisms may use the same or similar close-position bias designfunction.

With regard to FIG. 13, an illustration of an illustrative lock-box 1300configured with a sliding lid door 1302 is shown. The use of the slidingdoor 1302 enables the lock-box 1300 not to be fully slid out frombeneath an outdoor chaise lounge to access a compartment of thelock-box.

With regard to FIG. 14, an illustration of an illustrative lock-box 1400configured with a sliding drawer 1402 is shown. The sliding drawer 1402may be used to reduce the amount of hardware that would otherwise haveto support movement of the entire lock-box 1400.

With regard to FIG. 15, an illustration of illustrative outdoor chaiselounges 1500, configured with one or more lock-boxes 1502, in a stackedconfiguration is shown. Because of the configurations and positions ofthe various lock-boxes or safes 1502, the outdoor chaise lounges areable to be stacked as is normally done. In one embodiment, thelock-boxes 1502 may be centrally positioned with respect to the outdoorchaise lounges (i.e., centered horizontally and longitudinally), therebymaking moving and lifting the outdoor chaise lounges more balanced forattendants and users of the outdoor chaise lounges.

With regard to FIGS. 16A-16C, illustrations of an illustrative slidinglock-box 1600 in three different positions that may be integrated withan outdoor chaise lounge are shown. In FIG. 16A, the lock-box 1600 isstowed under a seat member 1602 and chair rail or frame 1604 of theoutdoor chaise lounge. In FIG. 16B, the lock-box is extended frombeneath the seat member 1602, thereby providing for a “table” or shelf1606 on which a user may place items. In FIG. 16C, a lock-boxcompartment 1608 may be further extended from beneath the table 1606portion or cover of the lock-box 1600, thereby enabling a user to accessthe contents of the lock-box 1600 without having to alter the table1606. In one embodiment, the lock-box 1600 may be slid out from beneaththe seat member 1602 whether or not the user has rented or is using thecompartment 1608 to provide the user with convenience of the table 1606.This configuration may also be considered a two-stage drawer.

With regard to FIG. 17, a flow diagram of an illustrative process 1700for enabling a user to rent a lock-box configured with an outdoor chaiselounge is shown. The process 1700 may include making a payment at step1702. The safe or lock-box may be in a closed position at step 1704, anda passcode or PIN may be created or received at step 1706. At thelock-box or via a remote system, the user may enter a passcode to causethe lock-box to lock. In the event that the user is provided with anRFID bracelet (see FIG. 1B), then the user may place the RFID tag of thebracelet near the lock-box to cause the lock-box to lock. The lock-boxor remote system may confirm a passcode provided to the lock-box at step1708. If the passcode matches at step 1710, the lock-box may be lockedat step 1712, otherwise the process may reform to step 1706. To unlockthe lock-box, the passcode may be reentered into and received by thelock-box by a user at step 1714. It should be understood that thelock-box may be configured to remain unlocked unless a valid passcode isentered, as determined at step 1716, where the lock-box may be opened atstep 1718. In other words, the lock-box may be normally unlock unlesscontrolled by a user to cause the lock-box to lock, thereby reducing thechance that something will unintentionally be locked in the lock-box bysomeone who does not know the passcode. At step 1720, an overrideprocess, such as using a physical key, may be used to unlock and openthe lock-box.

With regard to FIG. 18, an illustration of an illustrative outdoorchaise lounge 1800 inclusive of a lock-box 1802 is shown. The outdoorchaise lounge 1800 may also include a photovoltaic device 1804, acushion 1806, and at least one hinge 1808 configured to rotatablyposition a portion of the outdoor chaise lounge 1800 and the cushion1806.

In one embodiment, the lock-box 1802 may be about two-inches thick.Other thicknesses are possible depending on the configuration of theoutdoor chaise lounge 1800 to which the lock-box 1802 is engaged. Thelock-box may 1802 may include a drawer inclusive of a wireless chargerfor an electronic device such that when the electronic device is placedin the drawer, the electronic device may be charged. In one embodiment,the cushion 1806 may be approximately 3 inches thick. One of skill inthe art will appreciate that a variety of thicknesses for the lock-box1802 and the cushion 1806 are considered. The hinge 1808 may beconfigured to rotate the portion of the outdoor chaise lounge 1800 andthe cushion 1806 such that the lock-box 1802 may be accessible.

With regard to FIGS. 19A-19C, illustrations of illustrative outdoorchaise lounges 1902 a-1902 c (collectively 1902) that are configured tostack on other outdoor chaise lounges 1904 a-1904 c (collectively 1904)are shown. A profile of lock boxes 1906 are such that the outdoor chaiselounges 1902 are able to be stacked on outdoor chaise lounges 1904without touching or touching, but not damaging or otherwise impactingthe ability to stack the outdoor chaise lounges 1902 and 1904.

With regard to FIG. 20, an illustration of an illustrative outdoorchaise lounge 2000 inclusive of a lock-box 2002 is shown. In oneembodiment, a bottom or foot portion 2004 of the outdoor chaise lounge2000 may be rotatably connected such that the bottom portion 2004 may berotated upwards to allow a user access to the lock-box 2002. A hinge(not shown) to which the bottom portion 2004 attaches may be configuredto enable the bottom portion 2004 to remain in an upright position.Alternatively, the bottom portion 2004 may be rotated upwards and may beconfigured with one or more stop mechanisms (e.g., bar, pins, brace,etc.) that enables the bottom portion 2004 to be positioned in anupwards position (e.g., 30 degrees to 180 degrees) to allow for the userto access the lock-box 2002. The user may open a drawer 2006 of thelock-box 2002 to secure personal items inside the lock-box 2002. Afterclosing the drawer 2006, the bottom portion 2004 may be rotated down toallow the user to access the outdoor chaise lounge 2000. In anembodiment, a safety mechanism may be provided that prevents the bottomportion from pressing against the drawer when extended outwards.

In one embodiment, magnets, clips, hooks, loops and hooks material, orother fastening members may be disposed on a top portion 2010 of thechaise lounge 2000 that a user may use to attach or otherwise prevent atowel with complimentary member(s) (e.g., magnets, eyes, pockets, etc.)from sliding or falling down from the top portion 2010 of the chaiselounge 2000.

With regard to FIG. 21, an illustration of an illustrative outdoorchaise lounge 2100 inclusive of positions in which electronic device(s)2102 a-2102 c (collectively 2102) configured to be in communication witha communications network of a venue is shown. The outdoor chaise lounge2100 may also include a lock-box 2104 and a photovoltaic device 2106.

In on embodiment, the electronic device 2102 may disposed in at leastone of a frame and at least one leg coupled to the frame. The electronicdevice 2102 may be configured to be electrically coupled to anelectronic connector, either wired or wireless, disposed in at least oneof the frame and leg(s) coupled to the frame. One of skill in the artwill appreciate that any of the frame and the legs may be configured toinclude electronic connectors configured to be electrically coupled tothe electronic device 2102. Electrical conductors may be attached to orextend through the frame and/or legs to provide for electrical powerand/or signaling to the connectors. The electronic device 2102 mayinclude an electronic paper display, generally known as e-ink. In oneembodiment, the electronic paper display may include an approximately6-inch diagonal screen size. Other dimensions are possible. The frame,leg, or armrest (depending on the location and configuration of thechaise lounge or chair) (individually considered a structural member ofthe chaise lounge) may be indented to accommodate the electronic device2102 so that the device 2102 is flush with a top surface of the memberto which the device 2102 is secured or otherwise positioned. In anembodiment, a flap or cover (not shown) that is rotatably or otherwiseconnected to the member may be used to protect the device 2102 frombeing exposed to the environment (e.g., sun, rain, children, etc.). Inone embodiment, the electronic device 2102 may be configured tocommunicate with another electronic communications device attached tothe outdoor chaise lounge 2100. The wireless device of the outdoorchaise lounge 2100 may be configured to communicate signals from theelectronic device 2102 to a communications network of a venue. In oneembodiment, the electronic device 2102 may be configured to communicatewith the communications network of the venue directly or indirectly.

The electronic device 2102 may be configured to communicate signalsindicative of food and/or drink orders, a request for a venue server,and a number of other messages the user may communicate to the venue(e.g., chair number, general position of the chair, image of a user ofthe chair, or any other information). One of skill in the art willappreciate that a number of messages may be communicated from the userto the venue. Any variety of communications protocols, such as WiFi®,Bluetooth®, or otherwise may be utilized. In one embodiment, theelectronic device 2102 may be configured to have a low power sleep modewhen the user is not active. In one embodiment, the electronic connectormay include a inductive, wireless, or other connector that enablescharging of the electronic device 2102. One illustrative connector is aMagiSnap™ connector.

In one embodiment, the lock-box 2104 may include a battery, such as a6,000 mAH Lithium Ion Battery. Any other sized battery may be utilized.The battery may be rechargeable, as previously described, through use ofa photovoltaic or other device (e.g., wireless charger). The lock-box2104 may be configured with a circuit to prevent over and/or undercharging. In one embodiment, the lock-box 2104 may be further configuredto prevent overheating. In one embodiment, the photovoltaic device 2106may include an approximately 60 square inch photovoltaic panel.

In one embodiment, the outdoor chaise lounge 2100 may include a batteryfor the electronic device 2102, such as a 1,000 mAH battery. In oneembodiment, the battery for the electronic device 2102 may be housed inthe lock-box 2104. In one embodiment, the lock-box 2104 may include anadditional battery, such as a 500 mAH battery for powering the lock-box2104. The lock-box 2104 may also include a wireless charger for chargingelectronic devices and at least one USB port, such as a USB type A port.The outdoor chaise lounge 2100 may also include electrical conductors inat least one of the frame and leg(s) of the plurality of legs. Theelectrical conductors may be electrically coupled to the electronicconnectors.

With regard to FIG. 22, an illustration of an illustrative electronicdevice 2200 configured to communicate with a communications network of avenue is shown. The electronic device 2200 may include an electronicpaper display 2202. In one embodiment, the electronic paper display 2202may include an approximately 6-inch diagonal screen size 2204.

The electronic device 2200 may be configured to enable a user to orderfood and/or drinks, manage a chaise lounge (e.g., cause a light to beilluminated to notify other users that the chaise lounge is occupied,notify a hotel operator of the location of the user, etc.), communicatea message to venue security, communicate remaining battery to a user,communicate a message to an attendant of the venue, and end a usersession of a chaise lounge associated with the electronic device 2200.

In one embodiment, the electronic paper display may include an E-Ink6-inch screen. In one embodiment, the electronic device 2200 may beconfigured to communicate to Micros Hotel Software. The display of theelectronic device 2202 may be a touch-enabled display.

With regard to FIGS. 23A and 23B, illustrations of an illustrativeoutdoor chaise lounge 2300 a, 2300 b (collectively 2300) inclusive of aphotovoltaic device 2302 a, 2302 b (collectively 2302) and a cushion2304 a, 2304 b (collectively 2304) disposed on the photovoltaic device2303 are shown. In one embodiment, the outdoor chaise lounge 2300 a mayrepresent an occupied chair. The outdoor chaise lounge 2300 a mayinclude the cushion 2304 a in an up position. The up position may beconfigured to allow for a trickle charge from the photovoltaic device2302 a to electronic devices disposed in and/or in electricalcommunication with the outdoor chaise lounge 2300 a.

In one embodiment, the outdoor chaise lounge 2300 b may represent anunoccupied chair. The outdoor chaise lounge 2300 b may include thecushion 2304 b in a down position. The down position may expose asubstantially large portion of the photovoltaic device 2302 b such thatfast charging of electronic devices disposed in and/or in electricalcommunication with a lock-box of the outdoor chaise lounge 2300 b isenabled.

In one embodiment, an actuator, such as a powered motor or otherelectromechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic mechanism (e.g., pistonshaft), may be configured to automatically rotate the top or headportion of the chair to cause the cushion 2304 b to fold down, therebyexposing the entirety of the photovoltaic device 2302 b. In anembodiment, a sensor, such as a pressure or weight sensor, may bedisposed on a seat or leg portion, thereby sensing whether the chair iscurrently occupied, and enabling a driver of the powered motor or othermechanism. In an embodiment, the automatic sensing may determine whetherthe battery has a low charge prior to automatically rotating the topportion of the seat, thereby preventing the top portion from constantlyautomatically rotating.

With regard to FIGS. 24A and 24B, illustrations of an illustrativelock-box 2400 a, 2400 b (collectively 2400) inclusive of a slideabledrawer 2402 a, 2402 b (collectively 2402) are shown. The drawer 2402 mayinclude a wireless charging pad 2404 for wirelessly charging electronicdevices. The pad 2404 may be conductive or use any other wirelesscharging technology, as understood in the art.

In one embodiment, the lock-box 2400 may include a width 2406 ofapproximately 18 inches, a height 2408 of approximately two-inches, anda depth 2410 of approximately 12.5 inches. In one embodiment, the drawer2402 may include a depth 2412 of approximately 9 inches. One of skill inthe art will appreciate that a number of dimensions and/or combinationsof dimensions will operate substantially similar as the dimensionsdescribed herein. In one embodiment, batteries and/or other electroniccomponents may be housed in a rear portion 2414 of the drawer 2402.

Although the lock-boxes described herein have been applied to an outdoorchaise lounge, it should be understood that the lock-box may be appliedto other items or fixtures in accordance with the principles of thepresent invention. For example, tables, chairs, and other devices mayalso have lock-boxes applied thereto for rental or otherwise.

The previous description is of a preferred embodiment for implementingthe invention, and the scope of the invention should not necessarily belimited by this description. The scope of the present invention isinstead defined by the following claims.

What is claimed:
 1. An outdoor chaise lounge, comprising: a frame; aplurality of legs coupled to and extending below said frame to supportsaid frame; a seat member coupled to said frame to enable a user to sitor lay on said seat member; a lock-box fixedly supported by said framethat enables a user of the outdoor chaise lounge to store and lock itemstherein, said lock-box including a lock-box door inclusive of a userinterface that enables a user to lock and unlock said lock-box; at leastone electrical connector disposed on a member of the chaise lounge, saidat least one electrical connector configured to electrically couple toan electronic device, the electronic device configured to beelectrically communicative with a communications network of a venue; apower source; at least one other electronic device in electricalcommunication with said power source; and a second user interface inelectrical communication with (i) said power source and (ii) the atleast one other electronic device, wherein the at least one otherelectronic device includes a signal generator configured to generate analert signal to alert an attendant proximate the outdoor chaise loungethat the user has a request in response to the user activating thesignal generator via said second user interface.
 2. The outdoor chaiselounge according to claim 1, further comprising: a photovoltaic deviceconfigured to convert light energy into electricity; and wherein saidpower source is a rechargeable battery in electrical communication withsaid photovoltaic device.
 3. The outdoor chaise lounge according toclaim 2, wherein said power source is in electrical communication withsaid photovoltaic device via a wireless connector.
 4. The outdoor chaiselounge according to claim 2, wherein said photovoltaic device has asurface that extends behind and outside of a cushion configured for saidseat member.
 5. The outdoor chaise lounge according to claim 2, whereinsaid photovoltaic device is configured to be coupled to at least aportion of said seat member.
 6. The outdoor chaise lounge according toclaim 5, further comprising a cushion disposed on said seat memberhaving a first portion and a second portion, the first portion having anup position and a down position such that when the first portion is inthe down position, the photovoltaic device is fully exposed to receivelight energy.
 7. The outdoor chaise lounge according to claim 6, furthercomprising: a sensor configured to sense if a user is on the chaiselounge; and an actuator configured to rotatably move the first portionof said cushion relative to the second portion of said cushion inresponse to said sensor sensing that the user is not on the chaiselounge.
 8. The outdoor chaise lounge according to claim 1, wherein saidlock-box is fixedly attached to said frame.
 9. The outdoor chaise loungeaccording to claim 8, further comprising: a bracket configured to mountsaid lock-box to said frame; fastening members configured to fixedlysecure said lock-box to said frame; and a cover member configured toprevent direct access to said fastening members, wherein said covermember includes at least one cover fastening member being different fromsaid fastening members.
 10. The outdoor chaise lounge according to claim1, further comprising a power adapter outlet in electrical communicationwith said power source, and configured to enable a power adapter cord tobe electrically connected thereto, thereby enabling the user to charge arechargeable battery of an electronic device.
 11. The outdoor chaiselounge according to claim 1, wherein the at least one other electronicdevice includes an illumination device supported by said frame, whereinsaid lock-box further includes a circuit configured (i) to sense thatsaid lock-box is in a lock state and cause the illumination device toilluminate and (ii) to sense that said lock-box is in an unlocked stateand cause the illumination device to turn off.
 12. The outdoor chaiseaccording to claim 1, wherein said seat member includes a first sectionand a second section, the first section being rotatable relative to saidframe, wherein said lock-box includes an electronic lock mechanism thatis configured to enable the user to set the first section to aparticular rotatable position in which the user has to set the firstsection prior to the electronic lock mechanism to be able to unlock saidlock-box.
 13. The outdoor chaise lounge according to claim 1, furthercomprising hardware configured to fixedly secure said lock-box to theoutdoor chaise lounge.
 14. The outdoor chaise lounge according to claim1, wherein said door member is a drawer and the open position isconfigured to be the drawer pulled out from said lock-box.
 15. Theoutdoor chaise lounge according to claim 1, wherein at least one of saidframe and at least one of said plurality of legs includes an electricalconductor, the electrical conductor electrically coupled to the at leastone electrical connector.
 16. The outdoor chaise lounge according toclaim 1, wherein said lock-box has a height of about two-inches.
 17. Theoutdoor chaise lounge according to claim 1, wherein the electronicdevice includes an electronic paper display.
 18. An outdoor chaiselounge, comprising: a frame; a plurality of legs coupled to andextending below said frame to support said frame; a seat member coupledto said frame to enable a user to sit or lay on said seat member; alock-box fixedly supported by said frame that enables a user of theoutdoor chaise lounge to store and lock items therein, said lock-boxincluding a lock-box door inclusive of a user interface that enables auser to lock and unlock said lock-box; a power source; and at least oneelectrical connector disposed on a member of the chaise lounge, said atleast one electrical connector configured to electrically couple to anelectronic device, the electronic device configured to be electricallycommunicative with a communications network of a venue, at least one ofsaid frame and at least one of said plurality of legs includes anelectrical conductor, the electrical conductor electrically coupled tothe at least one electrical connector.
 19. The outdoor chaise loungeaccording to claim 18, further comprising: at least one other electronicdevice in electrical communication with said power source; and a seconduser interface in electrical communication with (i) said power sourceand (ii) the at least one other electronic device, wherein the at leastone other electronic device includes a signal generator configured togenerate an alert signal to alert an attendant proximate the outdoorchaise lounge that the user has a request in response to the useractivating the signal generator via said second user interface.
 20. Theoutdoor chaise lounge according to claim 19, wherein said power sourceis a rechargeable battery.